Snappy ginger apple taste, rush hour relief

Let's not resign ourselves to scrappy meals on these madly busy days, nor lose out on taste and nutrition. Sometimes we can have it all -- we just need the right recipe.

Ginger apple chicken stir-fry is a winner to try. It doesn't take long to make, the result is pleasing, with a snappy taste that will cheer jaded palates and warm a chilly evening.

The combination of ginger and apple works a kind of magic on the chicken, and a touch of Asian influence completes the palatable whole. If you happen to have guests to entertain, well -- that's their good luck to share this.

Ginger Apple Stir-Fry

(Start to finish 40 minutes)

2 tsp. sesame oil

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 tbsp. minced ginger root

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into strips

1/3 pound pea pods

1 small sweet red pepper, cut into strips

10 shiitake and/or white mushrooms, sliced

1/4 tsp. pepper

1/3 cup applesauce, unsweetened

2 tbsp. apple cider vinegar

2 tbsp. soy sauce

1 tbsp. cornstarch

1/3 cup chicken broth or water

Heat sesame oil in nonstick skillet or wok. Add garlic and ginger, and stir for about 30 seconds.

Add chicken and cook in hot oil 4 to 5 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink.